Coinciding with the restoration of the Hall of Mirrors, this programme resulted in a typological inventory of the most important large galleries found in European palaces, owned, for the most part, by ruling families).

Taking the great galleries used for ceremonial purposes, as communicating passages or for displaying collections, as well as those of historic and official importance, this research programme looks at their role in great iconographic programmes, major events, court life, their impact on art and the suitability of their decor for these purposes. The timescale stretches from the second half of the 17th century to the first half of the 19th century.

Productions

Publication of papers from the international symposium “The Great European Galleries” (directed by Claire Constans and Mathieu da Vinha) in the “Aulica” collection, joint publication Éditions de la Maison des sciences de l’homme / Centre de recherche du château de Versailles.